More correctly, a pitch shifter can alter the pitch of a note (up or down). A harmonizer actually adds another note (or more) on top of the original one. To avoid misuderstandings, the harmonizer and pitch shifter were used by Brian on his guitar, not to enhance the backing vocals.

More correctly, a pitch shifter can alter the pitch of a note (up or down). A harmonizer actually adds another note (or more) on top of the original one. To avoid misuderstandings, the harmonizer and pitch shifter were used by Brian on his guitar, not to enhance the backing vocals.

Very true, however in the case of 'Save me' the solo live could well be done with the aid of a harmonizer rather than pitch shifting, as it was if you remember a rather mechanical harmony in the original. i suspect it is the original quote that is not accurate rather than anything else. But you are totally correct about the differnce between the two.

"It is better to sit in silence and have people think you're a fool, then to open your mouth and remove all doubt"

Pitch shifting as a harmonizer adds harmony notes. It could be a third and fifth above the note played. Intelligent pitch shifting will do this in key. For example C plus E(a major 3rd above C) plus G(a fifth above C), D plus F(a minor 3rd above D) and A(a fifth above D)and so on. Note the interval of a 3rd is major for C and minor for D. It can be useful for playing multiple harmonized lines with only one guitar but IMHO sucks in the studio unless used as an effect(like Yes's Owner of a Lonely Heart) Hope this helps.